We already know that the country has turned another age in all, but we already know that the ongoing struggle in America indeed continues. And yes if you’re Black, you probably had been called out being a sellout all because you wore the Red/White/Blue instead of the Red/Black/Green. Or you might have sang the National Anthem without any concern except the fact the third verse had a racial thing attached. But as we put away the fireworks and flags in all, I’m scratching my head again.

Ok, did anyone actually read the Declaration? I mean really? What was summarized?

Black folks, we already know about the slavery side of 1776, but what about those whom served in both armies of the Continential, and the British that guaranteed freedom? Yes blacks did served under the flags back then.

Here is a question: I was reading Sophia A. Nelson’s book, “E Plurbis One”, and two of our founding fathers, Benjamin Franklin and John Adams were against slavery. And slightly before the founding year, the idea was shot down. Did you know this?

With all the 4th of July parades and parties in America, why not enough black folks? (At least the parade side)

Frederick Douglass’ speech from 1852 “What to the slave mean to the Fourth of July?” is like a call out to the “hypocritical attitude” of being free for most, not many. Any questions on that?

Best movies to watch on the fourth happens to be ranked of all time? Must include Independence Day and The Patriot.

Heard that the new San Antonio Spurs player, Lonnie Walker IV had to delete his tweet after he posted about not celebrating the 4th and telling everyone to stay woke. Umm………why was the tweet deleted after not standing his proof enough?

Is “every way” the American way?

How many Americans did not know what Juneteenth Day was about?

How many Americans did not know that Juneteenth Day came approximately 89 years total after 1776?

Speaking of that: Black folks, an idea here: we should wear the numbers 89 or 87 on July 4th (in either red white and blue; or red black and green) to symbolize the amount of years it took black folks to get the freedom we all talk about. Can that be done? And yes we can rock it for Juneteenth Day.

It’s 2018: you know you can be revolutionary by voting in the Midterms, right?

How many Americans did not know that the 4th of July is not always about fireworks?

How many Black T-Shirt makers can create a #MelaninPatriot shirt? or a “The Struggle Continues” in the Stars and Stripes and sell it?

Speaking of Juneteenth yet again, you know the official colors of the Juneteenth Day Flag is Red, White and Blue, right?

We know that Philly throws 4th of July Celebrations alot due to the birth of the nation. But can Milwaukee have a 4th of July party concerts with the locals musicians?

Speaking of Patriotic: which figures in American History seemed to be the most patriotic in terms of speaking out against racism, police brutality, white supremacy, and many other shameful acts?

Which zodiac sign is more like a patriot? I say……..my sign, Sagittarius.

Who is the more of the local patriots that knows the game in the local communities of the struggle, and I dare say the culture?

Milwaukee needs a 4th of July style laser light/fireworks/DJ Show. Who can do this?

Besides the Military, is the average community organizer, or everyday union worker or an everyday working person/volunteer that is very UNSUNG is also patriotic or revolutionary?

And now for the final question: Don’t be offended by the picture below.

Relax and breathe.

Black folks: we know already that many of us don’t really celebrate the 4th Of July by an example of the memes below. And yes, our ancestors were in shackles, branded, whipped, had no freedom, no liberty, no justice, no peace to be us. We were stripped from our former names to get the names like Toby out of Roots. We were forced to be bought and paid in auctions, but like Cicely Tyson said in one of Tyler Perry’s movie “Madea’s Family Reunion” in the line to the family: Now it’s time to take your place!” We also have this tendency to tell folks not to celebrate the 4th all because our ancestors were slaves. We weren’t beaten. But the legality of those beatings linger into police brutality, racism, sexism, discrimination among minorities, and others. We get sensitive when we see our brothers and sisters wearing red white and blue and shake our heads. Why?!!!!

If a black man or a black woman wants to celebrate the 4th in a way different, LET THEM CELEBRATE! Last year, I was listening to one of my local black radio hosts on WNOV 860. There was a black female caller who expressed about the celebrations of Juneteenth Day. However she also expressed about celebrating the Fourth of July. As we all know from her comment that this country was built on the backs of us Black folks either as slaves and freed people. We definitely know this and should know. And the thing is we always hear about us going back to Africa. Well many people forget, not too many in Africa like us African-Americans maybe because many of us haven’t been there! Many forget that part of the slavetrade, came out of Africa (partially sold by other blacks) which was a forgotten comment! And of course, America ate up the idea of slavery and served it up until 1865, when the slaves were declared free. According to Vibe.com, Roland Martin was on the Wendy Williams Show the year before (after she talked smack about the HBCU’S), cited that black people were “technically free”:

If you had to place a marker on when black folks were technically fully free Americans, it’s 1970.

So as I look at this meme with the word Independence spelled wrong, (don’t blame the Public Schools) a Tupac pic, and all the talk about Juneteenth Day being celebrated and something forgotten, and with the ongoing crimes, racism, sexism, discrimination, police brutality, war against blacks lives, undocumented murders against black folks and many other concerns, I must ASK this:

Have we fully gained our Independence so far? And after celebrating Juneteenth, did we fully gained OUR freedom as of right now? Let that sink in.

Callout: Freedom is still not free. Even after 242 years and even after 153 years. Let’s be real, the struggle to get to that freedom thing is going to take a ongoing four letter word of WORK!

And by the way, I need to say this: If a black man or woman or a black kid wants to celebrate BOTH the Fourth and Juneteenth, even if they fly the flags, or decorate the house, man let them. Just let them! Stop the calling out the coon or sellout names. That can somewhat die now. Some folks celebrate their birthdays on those days. Or a anniversary. Or whatever. Malia Obama’s birthday is July 4th….Hello! Let’s be clear, for those of us whom are so “conscious and woke”, look: your opinions are just that. Your own! Let the folks whom are so “Melanin Patriot Powered” have their day. Leave them alone! Let them reclaim their time. No one is not forcing you to celebrate the holiday, where as you should not force anyone to say: “Remember and celebrate Juneteenth Day!” Trust me you will not win that argument at all. I’m just saying, you say that forcefully and folks will still sleep. I mean correct me if I’m wrong, isn’t one of the Bill of Rights has the words, “Freedom of Expression” in it? Hey, let that sink in! And this applies to us like everyday.

Can I get a “Hotep” peace mixed in with a thanks of God Bless America?

Oh, is it Independence Day? The day of the 1776 that many were “partying?” Oh yes, it’s July 4th. The 242nd Anniversary of the Independence. And yes like before, we can celebrate in all. Plus I dare say to comment this: The Struggle Continues!

Why do I keep saying, The Struggle Continues? I keep it as a reminder that no matter what happens in life and in our daily lives, the struggle of the ideas, objectives, faith, financial, manhood, womanhood, your sexual preference, voting ideas, marital status, and other things we hold dear like a musket still continues with this struggle. Even being black and conscious about our black-selves is a struggle EVERYDAY.

Black folks: we know that already that a day like this may or may not favor us likewise. When this day of Independence was established as we know, our people was not partying like everyone else. Others may ask why, we know that SLAVERY and BONDAGE were a factor of us not celebrating the fireworks. It took 89 years, (that’s right 89 years) for us to have our share of freedom when Juneteenth Day was created. For you the non-black audience this is part of history that many (and MANY) slept over. We get caught up in the hype and we forget that there were cracks in the ground that didn’t get covered. Think about this, the next 4th of July Holiday will be in 2019. The same 2019 when we will summarize the last slaves arrived from Africa in 1619. We’re talking on the real: 400 years. We will be saying 400 years alot next year. But when that happens, we’ll recognize it and surely it will be summarized that will make 45’s hair snap out! We can talk about the use of Patriotism in the country. But for us Black folks here me when I say this: We are Patriots too! When someone on our social media folks says that black people aren’t patriots, they are lying. We are patriots due to the speaking out of Police Brutality. We are patriots speaking out on our Black Lives Matter every time! We speakout on the hate on us being denied of jobs, homes, assistance of medical and finance, where to shop, having our say of education, voting, innocent lives getting killed, and many others with the moniker “Amerikkka” in all in the addressing the thought and issues and concerns about this country that really affects us! We have to address it! And the reason being because is if anyone is not going to address our issues, we have to do it. That is OUR patriotic duty as citizens to upkeep the words that Dr. King once said as an example: “Be true what you say on paper!” That is just not being patriotic in our way, but it’s also being held accountable for the things and issues that get put out there! Yeah, we have a patriotism in our own right. And you don’t necessarily have to wave the Red, White and Blue all the time. The real patriotism is in your heart and your viewpoints. I just had to say that.

Frederick Douglass even questioned that when he asked, “What to the slave is the 4th of July? Martin Luther King even ask that question more than just “I Have A Dream”. Rosa Parks even asked about that question when hanging a banner about those being lynched. Malcolm X was questioning that very often about the formality of Black Excellence/Nationalism being questioned along with peace and freedom. And many countless others said the same thing whom were and are African-American and having the balls to do it. In his last 4th of July as President, Barack Obama commented about “imperfections in our union”. And he was right. And still there are imperfections today that still need to be tackled right now.

Currently, we are still speaking out. Even Rep. Maxine Waters of California still criticized the antics of Donald Trump. Yes, Auntie Maxine is speaking the truth like it or not. And many can hate all they want. Even some Democrats need to shut up and listen of what’s really going on. And oh, they and others want to her to stop talking that jazz and having civility. You want to talk about civility?! And all that talk about her inciting violence? What a joke! The real joke is the 45 acts of stupidity. The real joke of seeing that stars and stripes side by side with the North Korean Flag which almost make me puke. The real joke is hating on Harley-Davidson Motorcycles for the criticisms about this American made product that is Milwaukee Born being some of the jobs being shipped overseas and of course some of the employees probably favored Trump. Plus would this act stains the 115th Anniversary? And even rolling back the ideas that Barack Obama placed regarding the Affordable Care Act, College Admissions and others were classified as a joke for Trump. And all that so-called “Make America Great Again” stuff is nothing more that a fake revolution to bring to light. It’s a farce! Even separating families at the border for no apparent reason. And black folks we know the feeling of separation as many times explained how our people were on auction blocks being sold into slavery. And generations in the future are putting the links together to assemble our family trees.

Why I am saying this on a day like today? Why many are saying, “Stephen this is our country’s birthday. Leave it alone”. WHY?! Come on, now! I am like a Patriot that is addressing the concerns that many are afraid to touch just like everyone else. And no I’m not hating the Vets like many of you. My father served in the Vietnam War, an UNPOPULAR WAR mind you that was hated by many. This year would have reflected 50 years since he came home from Vietnam and when he got back, he like many others were disrespected by being called “baby killers” from the same folks who probably then waved the flag for support. Even though that the Vietnam Vets that I know and knew served in the was that wasn’t all that, they still served, period! And now 50 years later, they are just getting their just due for service. Well, I need to ask where was that love for them 50 year ago when they returned? I’m just asking and saying at the same time.

Despite of all this, yes we are lucky to have this time. But however we also recognize that it has not been easy. We have to grind every time to get to our objectives and goals. We can still be bold of our Independence but we still have alot of work to do. Even with this crazy So-called President that many right are realizing that Hillary might have been a better choice. There are many of us have been saying it. But……like Roland Martin says on Twitter: #WeTriedToTellYa!

So with all that, we still got work to do. We still got to weed out the wickedness that plagues us very badly. What that means is we got to do better. Like former VP Joe Biden once said that America is a better country that this. We can be better and will be better. Not just with a catch phrase. But with the actions behind it.

And the thing is there is a scratching of the heads from those whom feel that they never knew the holiday, or the occasion why this day exists.

It’s always been here. And it’s been around since June 19th, 1865.

If those need a history lesson on why Juneteenth Day is here and why it exists, let this enlighten you.

I’m assuming that many woke up this morning and asking what’s Juneteenth Day? I’m assuming that many didn’t get the memo about the last of the black slaves that were set free on this day in 1865 in Galveston, Texas. I’m assuming that yes, Abraham Lincoln scripted the document, the Emancipation Proclaimation on January 1st, 1863 in the idea of setting up the plan to free the slaves and the use of the word FREEDOM. Yes, that is what Juneteenth is in a sense, the freedom day that blacks heard the news that the last of the slavery portion was indeed over.

Why is this holiday since 1865 really matter to……let’s say the 4th of July? You know that the 4th of July in which many will dress like Lady Liberty, and fireworks in your local parks? Yeah, that one. But it’s also the same 4th of July that my ancestors were in bondage. They were slaves. They didn’t get all the freedoms that the rich white folks and their associates had to get. The ONLY way that the Slaved Men of African Decent had to get freedom back in the 18th Century in all, was to do one thing: serve in the Continental Army for one year and after that service is up, they will be guaranteed their freedom. Even the British Army were given the same option! The whole Fourth of July, or the “Fourth of YOU LIE!” thing was really about the freedom thing being denied due to the black folks being enslaved of no rights! From 1776 to 1865, black folks had to endure approximately 89 years of being enslaved with the words: tyranny, oppression and persecution. Oh they couldn’t enjoy the fireworks.

We all know that. I think we know it without all the googles.

Now to the crowd is asking this question: “Why didn’t I learned this in school?” I can answer that: it was never taught to you. The teachers you had probably never taught you that part of black history that should have been part of the curriculum. The real blame in my view is on the curriculum. Not just the teachers and authors of updated history books! The reason I picked the curriculum because I think it starts at the top of the educational food chain in all of the schools. And yes, as an Alumni of a School District like Milwaukee, and colleges like Milwaukee’s MATC and UW-Stout I agree with this message.

Juneteenth Day is important to summarize like the 4th of July in a sense because it was and is a monumental event in history of gaining independence. Gaining freedom. Gaining prosperity. And yes, gaining a thought to be equal for all. The late MLK as many like to quote alot, had often said “be true what you say on paper!” Be true! Don’t just be like, “oh, I like the blacks and I got black friends!” Or bringing up about Black on Black Crime, or the dumb question of “what are you celebrating?

Spoiler Alert: You will be asked that same question about celebrating the 4th of July. Just wait.

Now folks, can we please stop? Just stop right there.

If many really have black friends that dealt with police brutality, racism, being discriminated due to financial, spiritual, health related matters in all, even shot in the back while running from the cops for no reason, what is the deal?!

The deal is, in my opinion, even though that Juneteenth Day 2018 is coming to a close for another year, between now and next year, what’s next after all of the parades, food, merch, and red drinks like kool-aid?And how come Juneteenth Day doesn’t have a fireworks display? Come on, now! Propose an idea to get a fireworks display on the week before or after June 19th! Just like in the local festivals.

America must continue to deal with the grip of facing the realities of racism. Mainly of race. Juneteenth Day may abolished the thought of slavery, the reality of this is that spirit of slavery in such of Jim Crow, and up until now: the struggle continues! Even I say this after the Fourth of July will be concluded with the last blast of fireworks and picnics, and many may forget, guess what: THE STRUGGLE CONTINUES! Even in the era of 45 making a fool out of us and the world is probably asking what is wrong with America?

Oh you don’t hear me!

So yes: Happy Juneteenth Day! And also – the struggle does indeed, continues!

We already know that the country has turned another age in all, but we already know that the struggle indeed continues. And yes if you’re Black, you might had been called out being a sellout all because you wore the Red/White/Blue instead of the Red/Black/Green. Or you might have sang the National Anthem without any concern except the fact the third verse had a racial thing attached. But as we put away the fireworks in all, I’m scratching my head again.

Did anyone actually read the Declaration? I mean really?

Black folks, we know about the slavery side of 1776, but what about those whom served in both armies that guranteed freedom? Yes blacks did served under the flag back then.

I was reading Sophia A. Nelson’s book, E Plurbis One, and two of our founding fathers, Benjamin Franklin and John Adams were against slavery. Did you know this?

With all the parades in America, why not enough black folks?

Frederick Douglass’ speech “What to the slave mean to the Fourth of July?” is like a call out to the hypocritical attitude of being free for most, not many. Any questions on that?

I hear folks saying, “that flag wasn’t meant for us!” What flag is?

Why do certain folks scream out “Fourth of You Lie?!”

And also to add, what are you celebrating? Like really.

How come we didn’t point out the verse “No heirling for a slave” before like last year?

Was Whitney Houston’s version of the Star Spangled Banner from 1991 the best ever?

Was Marvin Gaye’s Star Spangled Banner from 1983 good?

What about Jimi Hendrix’s version of the Anthem?

Which Team USA Basketball team was better: 1992 or 2008? 92 all the way!

Can the hashtag #MelalinPatriot be a thing to follow? Melalin relates to black by the way.

We know that Philly throws 4th of July Celebrations alot. But can Milwaukee have a 4th of July party concerts with the locals musicians?

And now for the final question: Don’t be offended by the picture.

Relax and breathe.

Black folks: we know already that many of us don’t really celebrate the 4th Of July by an example of the memes below. And yes our ancestors were in shackles, branded, whipped, had no freedom, no liberty, no justice, no peace to be us. We were stripped from our former names to get the names like Toby. We were forced to be bought and paid in auctions, but like Cicely Tyson said in one of Tyler Perry’s movie Madeas Family Reunion: “Now it’s time to take your place!” We also have this tendency to tell folks not to celebrate the 4th all because our ancestors were slaves. We weren’t beaten. But the legality of those beatings linger into police brutality, racism, sexism, discrimination among minorities, and others. We get sensitive when we see our brothers and sisters wearing red white and blue and shake our heads. Why?!!!!

If a black man or a black woman wants to celebrate the 4th in a way different, LET THEM CELEBRATE! I was listening to one of my local black radio hosts on WNOV. There was a black female caller who expressed about the celebrations of Juneteenth Day. However she also expressed about celebrating the Fourth of July. As we all know from her comment that this country was built on the backs of us Black folks either as slaves and freed people. We definitely know this and should know. And the thing is we always hear about us going back to Africa. Well many people forget, not too many in Africa like us African-Americans maybe because many of us haven’t been there! Many forget that part of the slavetrade, came out of Africa which was a forgotten comment! And of course, America ate up the idea of slavery and served it until 1865, when the slaves were declared free. According to Vibe.com, Roland Martin was on the Wendy Williams Show last year (after she talked smack about the HBCU’S), cited that black people were “technically free”:

If you had to place a marker on when black folks were technically fully free Americans, it’s 1970.

So as I look at this meme with the word Independence spelled wrong, (don’t blame the Public Schools) a Tupac pic, and all the talk about Juneteenth Day being celebrated and something forgotten, and with the ongoing crimes, racism, sexism, discrimination, police brutality, war against blacks lives, undocumented murders against black folks and many other concerns, I must ASK this:

Have we fully gained our Independence? And after celebrating Juneteenth, did we fully gained OUR freedom? Let that sink in.

Callout: Freedom is still not free. Even after 241 years. And even after 152 years. Let’s be real, the struggle to get to that freedom thing is going to take a four letter word of WORK!

And by the way if a black man or woman or kid wants to celebrate BOTH the Fourth and Juneteenth, even if you fly the flags, let them. Just let them. Some folks celebrate their birthdays on the days. Or a anniversary. Or whatever. Let’s be clear. For those of us whom are so conscious and woke, look: your opinions are just that. With all due respect. Let the folks whom are “Melanin Powered” have their day. Leave them alone! No one is not forcing you to celebrate the holiday. Where as you should not force anyone to say “Remember and celebrate Juneteenth Day!” Trust me you will not win that argument. You say that forcefully and folks will still sleep. I mean correct me if I’m wrong that isn’t one of the Bill of Rights has the words, “Freedom of Expression” in it? Hey, let that sink in! And this applies to us like everyday.

We American folk got a birthday. 241 years. And the first strange US Birthday under #45. We know.

Oh, Happy Birthday, United States.

We are in the 241st Chapter and yes it gets more interesting. But however as in the concerns about the country are going on, with the mess of the now #45, we still as a nation need to have a fortitude to move forward. We still deal with the concerns of Black Lives really matter to the fullest. We already know that the issue of racism STILL LINGERS! We already know the concerns of the communities, especially Black Communities that face trouble everyday. We still have to get our folks to get the jobs, education, ownerships and many other factors we still face every single today. Of course many today took the time out to acknowledge the document of the Declaration of Independence, in which has the infamous words that “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men (even women) are created equal.” We know. Heck, we’ve been knowing that since the day we read the Declaration. But we’ll be honest, the words we know from the document looked good and nice, but we still haven’t lived up to the hype of the follow up. There is still discrimination out there as much as being called a N*gger on the streets or not getting that house, that car, or even that job that you want badly. In the last 241 years on a presidential scale, we’ve elected 45 presidents and some were dumbfounded. Others, game changers. President Barack Obama was a Game Changing Commander in Chief. He was the catalyst that many had hoped for. And I chose him twice as a candidate to lead the nation. Why did I voted for him? Enthusiasm and Vision. That’s it! Nothing else. Yes of course I wanted to see someday a black man to lead the nation in the White House. The very same White House that was built by slaves. And last time, many of the so-called patriots called out Michelle Obama for saying that. Well guess what, it was the truth. The very same acknowledgement that many in the black community don’t acknowledge the 4th. You may have heard it many times: Our people were in bondage. They were shacked, branded, didn’t have any rights to be themselves. And that is hard reality that not a school teacher didn’t acknowledge. Of course we can wave the flags now and don’t even care about it. But that then around that time, we couldn’t do (in the words of Chris Farley) JACK SQUAT!

And yes even Frederick Douglass had the infamous words of “What does the slave mean to the Fourth of July?” in calling out the hypocrisy of celebrating America’s Freedoms except black slaves. Let’s calculate: Between 1776 and 1852, how many years was that? 76 years. 76 years of us and a few supporters to call out the hate against America’s DNA counterpart of Slavery. Ain’t that something? Plus also I’ve read the “E Plurbis One” book by News Commentator, Sophia A. Nelson and she states in the book that two of our founding fathers, John Adams and Benjamin Franklin even got on America’s case of harboring slaves during the start of the country’s founding, around 1775 and 1776 sparingly. She even highlighted that a female, Harriet Beecher Stowe who written the novel, “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” called out the hypocritical attitudes of the country regarding Slavery. So guess what Americans: Before Frederick Douglass, other folks called out slavery during the Revolutionary War era. Even evangelist and England’s own son, John Wesley who later founded Methodism (aka the United Methodist Church) called out slavery being inhumane.

But then you got black folks on the day like today saying remember Juneteenth Day! I didn’t forget. Heck, I fly my flags ON BOTH HOLIDAYS! You read that right. I do both holidays. There was time that yes I flew both FLAGS on the Fourth. No question. But however the thought of flying BOTH FLAGS outside of my house on Juneteenth Day was a long thought of an idea. So the week of Flag Day of June 14th, I keep them both out until the 19th. So yes, the idea of displaying the flags of the U.S. and Wisconsin was well planned indeed. But took the idea to how it was displayed. Until we see buntings of the Red Black and Green, THEN WE CAN BE IN BUSINESS.

But to back about Juneeteenth Day, look, for my black readers, what I’m about to say might sting. We all go hard about Juneeteenth all day everyday. No question. But I have to ask this. Read this article from Juneteenth:

This holiday is the “black version” of the 4th, but like many other 4th’s we celebrate we are still not free. Does that sound familiar? Think about it. Sounds familiar? We talk about it all the time, but when ever problems come up in regarding the shootings of unarmed black folks, racism, not getting the house/car due to a thing of running credit checks, I know that many of you today asked that same old question: “Have we gained our independence? Not just on the fourth, not just on the 19th of June, or any other non related holiday or occasion? So the question shouldn’t be pointed on the fourth, but also on the 19th as well. And the thing like the fourth this is a hard reality for the 19th: When the food is put away, when the flags, lights, fireworks, staging areas, the beer, the brats, or red kool-aid are all put away. And when the last person goes out to go home, or group to leave the exits, I got three words for the celebrations: THE STRUGGLE CONTINUES! No matter what happens now, a year from now, or whenever, the struggle continues!

So I ask again: Have we gained our independence from both the Fourth of July and Juneteenth Day? Until that happens, we will indeed know and reminded in this era that INDEED the struggle continues!

Clearly, this has been a rough summer so far. Just today, that there was another black life that was fallen in Louisiana. And the thing is, it’s all on Social Media, the news, and also the paper. I will say his name: Alton Sterling. Now many of us are just knowing the name of this man who passed on at age 37. I beat that age 2 years ago! But his death now makes the list of black folks who have died in the hands of police custody. And the thing is, he died the day after America celebrated another year of life of 240 years. Folks going ham on that. More on that in the moment. And also dude was making a side hustle by selling CD’s. What COP in their so-called right mind would shoot a guy that was selling CD’s outside of a store that was well known in his area of residence?

I don’t understand it. When we hear about black men being shot and killed in our communities, it’s like we are traumatized by this effect. By the way, I will blog about Trauma – Informed Care next. Matter of fact, we are all traumatized by these shootings, these stabbings, homicides, and many other things that harms the lives of black folks. Not just black men, but also black women! Alton Sterling didn’t deserve to die period! He should have been doing his hustle for his family and supporting his causes of what they might have been. It only took two white officers who pinned him down, shot him twice and held him when the paramedics came, and later died. And dude was ONLY 37 years old. The same age when Medgar Evers passed many years ago. I’ll bet that the chief of police or the mayor or the officials will be heavily under the microscope in further examination that their jobs might be on the line. If anyone knows how this feels, come to Milwaukee. We know the feeling Baton Rouge! It seems that the phrase of “Black Males are an Endangered Species” is really coming into play more in this era that the 90’s. The last time I heard that, was in the 90’s and I was teen then. But now in the age of Social Media, and smartphones, and gun idiots acting a fool on Instagram, plus those on Facebook like to divert the behavior of the hateful phrase featuring “you people caused this” along with the so-called Black Lies Matter phrase, every black life we see fall under these gun touting cops must be FURTHER EXAMINED and it’s apparent that they should be brought on charges against their craft of protect and serve. In other words, they should be fired. PERIOD! There is no excuse of them doing this at all. None!

And for the record, I’ve read about folks dying and getting into danger during Christmas, New Years, Black Friday,before the 4th if July, the start of school, summer break, and even also when Juneteenth Day happens! Bobby The Brain Heenan once said “Death does not take a holiday. There are no vacations for The Undertaker.”

Now my second take: “What are you celebrating?”

It seems that the 4th of July with Black Folks have this mixed bag. A mixed bag that still lingers. A mixed bag that has this so called protest about that Black folks shouldn’t celebrate this holiday that had nothing do with them. I see it. And yes, when the country was formed in that year of 1776 as we all know, my black ancestors were in bondage. They didn’t celebrate the 4th. They weren’t free to celebrate anything like today. But yes, even Frederick Douglass called out the disdain of the attitude that the country was enduring with slavery for it’s first 76 years of the country’s life. That’s 1776 and 1852. Yes, Frederick Douglass did called it out and I’ll bet that many also felt like the same way. In the same way when Martin Luther King called out America’s Bad Attitude. Rosa Parks, Malcolm X, and a host of African-American men and women who have done the same thing. This recent thing online, about black folks (not all) rejecting the thing about not celebrating the fourth is not new. I’ll bet folks were doing this before I was born.

But: there have been others who subsequently Idid celebrate in a different way. Not because they SOLD OUT. There have been this phrase that blacks don’t think the same. We don’t! Some celebrate the 4th, some don’t. Now I already said that I celebrate the 4th, but also I say that the struggle continues. Even our black forefathers had to realize that even those some of them who were slaves turned soldiers in the Continental Army had to realize that even though they were fighting for freedom, they had to know that the struggle continued. And the seceding generations of black folks who went through the same channels of pain, plus freedom fighting, must had to realize that the struggle continued!

Let’s not forget, that even though that there were slaves during the country’s founding and the disdain, but also there were black folks back then whom were unsung that got out of slavery because of joining the continental army! Many of them were UNSUNG HEROES!

Unsung Heroes like: James Armistead who was a spy during Revolutionary War. And also countless others served as well whom were black! You “Fauxtep woke Conscious Black folks” need to read up more.

CALLOUT: WHY weren’t the UNSUNG HEROES of Black folks didn’t get mentioned on the Fourth? And I ask this to every black citizen who reads this blog and have this disdain of the Fourth of July! or in the verbatim: Fourth of YOU LIE! Any takers? Go ahead answer it.

Like I said in my last blog, you can’t please folks. If those want to celebrate the 4th, let them celebrate. Leave them alone. If you like Juneteenth Day same thing. However if you’re like me that celebrates BOTH the 4th and Juneteenth, don’t open your mouth! Keep it shut and move on. I’m tired all this stuff about what black folks telling black folks to celebrate and what not to celebrate. For me, if I want to celebrate the 4th of July with the Red, White and Blue on my house and having a Red Black and Green up at the same time, that’s my choice!

I don’t need no approval from ANYONE that harbors me about it. No one. Just to think, the last time I checked, I’m a grown man. Got my own mind and all. And I don’t need some silly so-called Internet meme, mixed with those whom should celebrate and not.

For any African-American (like minded) who celebrates the Fourth in some way, and it’s ok. The next time some wanna be truth teller or a person who is so woke, asks you a question like: “What are you celebrating?” Tell them this:

I’m celebrating life with my family.

I’m celebrating the blessings that God has given me.

I’m celebrating my gifts and talents.

I’m celebrating my achievements and I’m celebrating me always.

I’m celebrating my Independence of what I do freely every day even in times of struggle.

Add life lessons too.

ANY QUESTIONS?

For those asking the question: What are you celebrating? in relation to the fourth, may I ask you the same question? REAL RECOGNIZES REAL! – And that also can be “conscious” too. So to me it’s fair game. Think about it.

I got love for my black folks, and leaning on the ancestors for confidence, but still I must do me!

First I want to have a question here. What does it take to be conscious? Really conscious? Black conscious? It seems that in today’s era of #blackmalebrillance or #blackgirlmagic that is going around alot. Really alot. However the use of being conscious in my view is a good thing at times, but it can be deadly poison if used inappropriately.

Check this out: I’m on the net last week, and I typed in the word Hotep. If those don’t know what that means, it means “at peace”. Really it does. If the word hotep means at peace, why there are those that abuse the word and getting away with bloody murder? Everytime I go on to Facebook, or Instagram, it’s all these memes that are mostly negative and abusive without any references of information given! And usually I hate to say, really involves black folks. Not all, but a inner circle like that well known. It’s well known that there is all these “truth tellers” that abuse their”conscious” outlooks on those they reach to, and it’s almost they try to draw in to please folks. Almost like they want a certain type of folks to be on their same team of sticking together.

This reminds me of two episodes of the Fresh Prince Of Bel Air back in 1992 and 1993. From the 1992 show, entitled “Those were the days” had an point in the show where the character Marge telling Uncle Phil and the Original Aunt Viv about system doesn’t work, and blowing it down. And later commenting about forgetting that issue. Later on, Uncle Phil had to remind Marge that he was the same person that faced dogs and firehoses, Harlem going up in flames. He also indicated that he didn’t need to fight in the streets. He used his office to fight from. Ranging from Heathcare, Decent Housing and many others. So there was proof that the “liberation” or in this case the radicalized portion of him still lived in him. Even thought that the times changed since.

The next show in 1993: This time it’s Will and Carlton joining up in a Black Fraternity on Campus. What was that Frat? Phi Beta Gamma. And had the Pledge Leader Top Dog making them and others doing the dirty work. The real climax of the show, came when the word got in that Will got in to the fraternity, but Carlton didn’t.

The reason: Top Dog viewed Carlton as a sellout. You all know the episode scene. Here it is:

So after looking at that, I ask the question: Conscious much? Even that could be a fact of what goes on today. Matter of fact it does. There wasn’t a Hotep moment on this. And I ask again, if Hotep means at peace, why the abuse of the word hotep anyway? If many had understood the reasons why then many shouldn’t get an attitude about it anyway. I’m pro for those who speak their mind in all, BUT many need to know that you have to control it!

Which leads me to this: Happy Birthday, America. All of the 240 years. We know, we know. The same traditional hoiliday got the folks dressing up in the Red, White and Blue, going to the fireworks, kicking back with brats, beer, games, bells, canons, and whistles. And taking the day off to be at the movies, or at the crib. We know right?

And also: Malia Obama turned 18 years old. With being the last 4th for President Obama. And with Kendrick Lamar and Janelle Monae.

And yes, the proverbial of the question is this: Should African-Americans celebrate the Fourth? Before answering, there was a time when black folks didn’t celebrate this day due to the fact, slavery was in session. And probably you had this on your Facebook TimeLine: FOURTH OF YOU LIE! Why this you ask? The use of slavery was still in effect in the era of our Compatriots was still in battle against England and King George during the Revolutionary War. And I’ll bet the RBG, Hardcore Black Conscious folks and some Bandwagon Conscious folks had to go in on the Fourth like it was third period French class. But here was the kicker, there were black folks celebrating the fourth yesterday in partaking in the festivities and or cooking up the food in the yards. I read somewhere on Facebook this morning about this black dude in disgust about a black woman wearing a dress that almost resembled an American Flag. I read that and I’m like REALLY?! The commenter who posted that on Facebook actually is upset about a black woman wearing a dress that is Stars and Stripes like. You know what, I’ve seen black men wearing Flag shirts and grill outside of their homes. I’ve seen black workers who had on little make up in Red, White and Blue in freaking Walgreens! Oh check this: I’ve seen a black woman on a Harley-Davidson Motorcycle the stars shirt on in Milwaukee. So my question is what is the haps?!

And having to ask the question, “what are you celebrating?”

CALLOUT: For those asking, let me ask those questioning: What are YOU celebrating? And no, it’s not July 4th related.

So that means that black folks can’t wear flag shirts?

Who is really speaking up for black folks that they can’t wear a certain attire that doesn’t equality with black unity? Let me say this: I freaking hate sagging pants! I hate this control of what I can’t wear or here is my favorite of which style of education is best to go like Distance Education. For example, there were both black and white folks against me and attacked me because I didn’t use the traditional route of going to class. And this thought of me leaving Milwaukee and all this mess. But I still graduated anyway 10 years ago from UW-Stout. Hmmm….. where is the Black Conscious Unity on that? Where was that yesterday on Facebook while those flooding the News Feeds of the disdain about a holiday that had no regards to include black slaves?!

Of course I know why some of us say “FOURTH OF YOU LIE!” Along with the racism, police brutality and segregation of the country.

So they are telling me that I suppose to celebrate everything black only? In a radical, revolutionary and unapologetically manner? I need those to hear me out on this. Specifically if those use “communications”. Seriously, do I supposed to celebrate lets say, Juneteenth over Independence Day only? Is that what this is? How would those say that about Juneteenth Day as being “FalseTeenth Day” or “Blacks Making a Fool on June 19th Day?” Oh, folks would be upset right? I think it should.

This is not a mockery of Juneteeth nor a mockery of Independence Day. Both holidays are different and apart by 89 years. But in this sense: I celebrate them both. One of my late relatives’ birthday is on Juneteenth Day. Not fronting on this! Ever year the flags go out in celebration of the holidays in the Summer months and that’s just fine by me. And plus the decorations go out as well. The reason I celebrate the Fourth, is not because of a dare. It’s like a choice appreciation of my services in community. So far I serve in the community for Alumni, Church, and Scholarship for Higher Education. And while we’re at it, lets don’t pretend that this doesn’t make sense because it does! I looked at some of the footages of the Fourth of July Parades in the Milwaukee Area, and I’ve seen a whole lot of white folks pack the parade routes. But I saw also a Sherman Park Parade that had a black woman leading it with marchers, a band, and a short escort with Milwaukee Police Presence in the neighborhood. Recently, the Sherman Park Area was hit with an act of violence prior to the Fourth. But as like anything else there was some life given though in that area. And currently it’s still trying to heal from the previous occurrence.

Whether folks like it or not, there will be blacks that will celebrate the fourth in some sort of way almost like wearing a suit to church or work. But there will be those that don’t. Ok understood. The same with the decorations. Flying the flags, displaying the buntings, hooking up a Star Shower Patriot Laser Light outdoors at night. And the same won’t do any displays that will have an ugly truth. I will agree that there is good and bad in everything.Even with Juneteenth and the 4th.

One last thought about this, yes it’s been about 154 years since Frederick Douglass written “What is the slave mean to the Fourth of July?” And it was addressed to those at the time whom were apart of the Anti-Slavery Movements and yes he did questioned about the day celebrating America’s Independence, while still stomping his viewpoint about those whom were in bondage.Thats like saying “why do you continue to celebrate freedom for this day, and you don’t include my black people?!” Henceforth: Fourth of You Lie, right? Later on figures like Rosa Parks, Martin Luther King Jr, Malcolm X all said the same thing in various forms! King summarized “Be true what you say on paper”.

Even President Obama highlighted his commentary on the Fourth:

How incredible – how incredibly lucky we are that people, generations ago, were willing to take up arms and fight for our freedom. And then people, inside this country, understanding that there were imperfections in our union and were willing to keep on fighting on behalf of extending that freedom to all people and not just some.

And the key words was: “There were imperfections in our union” Meaning that America had and has blemishes in it’s 240 year streak. So there were and are faults. Even today as I write this blog yet again.

Makes sense for most, but in the words of a former WWE Wrestler Bad News Barrett: I’m afraid I got some bad news!

For the ultra conscious folks and this period of making folks not celebrate any holiday: You cannot please folks all the time. I’m sorry to say it. There might be those who will celebrate things that aren’t likeable of others. There will be those who will celebrate things that are likeable. There will be those who will celebrate things that are like minded. And others. Even if a person who does dresses like Lady Liberty or Wonder Woman and is a black woman on America’s Birthday! And also does know about the bondage of black slaves that were not celebrating the 4th like everyone else. The same with a black man wearing a Old Navy Flag Shirt, having a plan to decorate the house in all red, white, and blue, and is reminded that the struggle continues as a black man in America. Race included.

So with being said, all stories should be told. And let me end by saying this:

I did this for Mother’s Day. And now, just in time before Father’s Day. Now for every father in the building have a great Father’s Day to you all. But before that happens, I’m about to scratch my head again of the most recent events. By the way, there will be no same neckties! Not in that order.😉

Father’s Day falls of Juneteenth Day this year. Who’s down going after church?

AGAIN: If all lives really matter, again what is up with the still hate of Black Citizens?

For those watching Voltron: Legendary Defender, can you catch up on the 80’s version that Gen X knows?

For the LGBT folks: would you fly this flag?

Milwaukee: are you ready for Summerfest?

Still can’t stand the hypocrites in church huh? Do those have hypocrites in the workplaces also? Even at your owned business? Or the Hangouts? Don’t worry I’ll wait. Especially if you are on Facebook or Instagram talking comments.

Is Lebron James ready for another ring, or will Chef Curry have the final say in Game 7?

Look America: so you still can’t stand bathroom issues with the Transgender folks. My question is, when you were using the bathrooms at public places or at your JOB, haven’t you noticed that for years?

I need to ask: why many people think that the Steph Curry Under Armour White Shoes is ugly? Are we back in High School?!!! I can hear this now: Look at the white shoes! Look at the white shoes! Look at the white shoes! Lord.

The GOP is imploding. Good! Have they learned their lessons, yet all the mess out of Donald Trump?

CALLOUT: Why isn’t Children’s Day is acknowledged more like Mother’s Day and Father’s Day? And Children’s Day is on June 12th.

Has the United Methodist Church listened to the concerns of the demonstrations of the Black Lives Matter movement out at the General Conference in Oregon? And WILL that same influence impact on every UMC Conference, and specifically at EVERY BLACK UNITED METHODIST CHURCH?

Donald Trump is still taking it to hole. A black hole. Will you supporters actually pull out of the hole?

It’s stupid. Those that hated Muhammad Ali for years all because he didn’t join the military, or being so radical. So what? Just because those didn’t serve, doesn’t mean they don’t get a pass.

If Milwaukee just now getting to the bottom of the lead pipes, why wasn’t this discovered WAY before 2015? And you know what I’m talking about.

Black folks: We should adopt the montage “Never Forget” in regarding slavery, or concerns or anything that those might say get over it. Just like jews with the holocaust. Can we?

We know the Orlando shootings made the worst list of massacres in US History. But…..you know there been others, right? Wounded Knee, Black Wall Street? Just saying.

MAJOR QUESTION: They say June is Men’s Health Month. I knew this years ago with the light blue ribbons. Why is this occasion is not as popular as breast cancer awareness month?

Dang what is up with these folks still trying to get folks hooked up in the wrong places?!

Can the Single folks have a national day or month without all the marriage hassle talk? Same stuff everyday.

I like seeing all the rainbow stuff glow on buildings in honor of Pride Month. Will this be more of this every year? Not just for those whom passed on.

Can Milwaukee have real meaningful jobs like of Chicago, DC, New York, LA, San Francisco, Silicon Valley, NASA, Instagram, WWE, or Facebook?

Again, no offense but why is Mother’s Day is slightly higher than Father’s Day?

Will the workplaces and the churches finally accept introverts? As well as more Seasoned Vets who can still be available to work and do more techie stuff over 40 years old like the Millennials?

Is Milwaukee ready to go through another missing element of African World Festival, AGAIN? You really can’t have a “City of Festivals” without black folks!

Midtown and Northridge haven’t been the same as usual in Milwaukee. What is it gonna take besides talking?!

I know it’s past, but can the sports universe remind Ayesha Curry that when Golden State beat OKC in the playoffs was considered “Rigged?”

We know the Milwaukee Streetcar is coming. AGAIN. But why there are those in the Black Community still think it would not benefit them? I need ask, are those IN the black community willing to work on the Streetcar project and later ride it in 2021 in Bronzeville? (Without complaining)

Everybody is still tripping about this “Father’s Day for Single Mothers”. Are we in the black community that sensitive about a darn greeting card from 2011? If I recall, I blogged about this 5 years ago. Go back and read it.

Or is it we knew someone that was or is in that category?

The first time I heard “Happy Father’s Day to the Mother’s” was around 1996. And it was in church and there was no complaints. So look, we know that Father’s Day is for the Fathers. The Grandfathers, Uncles, Male Mentors, Single Dads, Male Cousins who are Fathers, Foster Dads, Godfathers, and anyone that looks out like a Father (yes this includes single mothers), Community Fathers, etc.

If you are single black man WITHOUT kids, does that make you a father?

What in the living you know what is going on?!!!! I’m reading the wire, via the internet about some pics of Adidas. And I had to notice this during the week of Juneteenth Day. Yes, I did attend my home city’s Juneteenth Day Celebrations more on that later. For this, WHY THIS? I’m seeing the shoes with shackles. I’m thinking, why in the world like Adidas, who had a great marketing theme with the likes of Run-D.M.C. would have a design of shoes like this? I’m going to say that one: It’s a slap in the face! It’s a slap in the face of what it views in terms of a gravey past of Slavery! I mean for real, it’s a real SLAP!

Knowingly that this will pass and Adidas will realize that this was a bad idea of marketing shoes with shackles. I mean really. Companies have to be real of what they display or show. Obviously it’s a part of being responsible! And on the flip side, if that were to be fully marketable, it would be nothing more than a disgrace. Knowingly some would say, “Oh man, those shoes look tight! I gotta have those with orange looking shackles on it. Looks hot.” Excuse me for asking, but why would anyone would have a pair of shoes with shackles on it?! Hello!

I know that the Trayvon Martin mentality had sparked the ills against African-Americans in terms of violence. But where’s was the mentality of this about these shoes?! I know I know the answer to that. But here’s another question: where’s the mentality of learning about how to Vote with having the Vote or Die moniker for whose who DONT Vote? Or the purpose of Juneteenth Day other than a day of celebration? Explain that. The same with Black History Month, Black Music Month, or get this, what’s the real reason of celebrating the 4th of July other than FIREWORKS?!